With warmer weather and rain forecasted for this weekend, the City is asking residents to be cautious around waterways, help clear blocked storm drains, and fire hydrants

“As the snow melts and water levels rise, we’re asking people to stay away from rivers and ponds,” said Bill Barr, acting general manager of Public Works. “City crews will be busy again this weekend clearing fallen tree limbs and branches, particularly those still hanging or posing a potential hazard. If they’re able, we’re asking residents to help clear storm drains and catch basins to prevent flooding, and any help clearing sidewalks and fire hydrants would be appreciated as well.”

The City is asking for people’s patience and assistance during Guelph’s recovery from two recent storms.

·Be cautious around waterways and ponds as temperatures hover around freezing.

·Pleasedrive according to road conditions and call 519-837-5628 to report problem spots.

· In areas where the sidewalks have not been cleared, pedestrians and motorists are asked to take extra care and watch out for each other.

·Report tree hazards to operations@guelph.ca or call 519-837-5628 and include your name, contact information and the street address where the tree is located.

· Please keep fire hydrants clear of snow.

· Help keep storm drains clear.

Guelph’s storm recovery and cleanup efforts will continue over the next eight weeks. Specifically, the City’s forestry activities are prioritized as follows:

Residents are asked to avoid treed areas in parks and trails, and bring fallen branches and trees from private properties to the
Waste Resource Innovation Centre at 110 Dunlop Drive for free disposal.

The City’s winter maintenance service helps ensure community safety every day, and in the event of extreme weather. The City will provide continued updates to the community, and invites people to subscribe to updates using Twitter or Facebook

.”Many thanks to the City of Guelph and Guelph Hydro staff for working diligently to deal with the aftermath of these two storms,” said Mayor Karen Farbridge. “Stay safe and continue to be patient as City crews address icy roadways and sidewalks, and downed trees.”